Hotel Park

Split’s oldest purpose-built hotel (dating from 1921, hence the Art Deco details) is set in gardens with palms and a small pool.

It sits directly above Bacvice Bay and beach, where locals play picigin (a mysterious ball game) in shallow waters by the beach. The beach is just across the road from the hotel, with some of the rooms boasting lovely sea views.

It’s ideally placed for cultural sightseeing, lying a 10-minute stroll from Diocletian’s Palace.

For an insider’s view of Dalmatian cuisine, join the chef shopping at the morning open-air markets, then enjoy a private Chef’s Table dinner in the evening.

The hotel spa also has an unusual Salt Room – inhaling its saline air is said to relieve lung ailments.